April is national Call Before You Dig month
MADISON, WI – April 11, 2012 – For many, warm sunny weather equals being outdoors and working on home improvements. Whether you’re landscaping, installing a fence, or building a deck, Alliant Energy urges you to “call before you dig.”
“Safety for both our customers and employees is always a top priority at Alliant Energy,” said Patricia Kampling, Alliant Energy Chairman, President, and CEO. “The benefits of this free service are invaluable. Not only can it prevent utility service interruptions, but it can save lives as well.”
Calling before you dig is more than just a smart idea – it’s the law. Failing to call before digging or starting to dig before the lines are properly marked can result in injury or death, or at least severe penalties and fines. Residents in Wisconsin should call at least three working days before beginning a project.
You can always call 811 to contact your state’s One Call Center. If you live near the border, call the direct line to avoid confusion. By calling your state’s number listed below, your local One Call Center will contact all utilities involved. Crews from those utilities will then come to the area and mark the location of any underground service lines on your property. It’s a free service.
In Wisconsin: Diggers Hotline, 1-800-242-8511
Once the crews mark the lines and you begin digging, stay at least 18 inches away from the marked lines.
If you make contact with a buried line, call 811 to report the damage. Don’t try to cover up the damage, because it could eventually become a hazard. Reported damage is repaired so buried lines stay safe.
If you’re planting a tree, remember to consider the length of the roots as the tree matures, and avoid planting tall-growing trees under power lines.
If you have questions or concerns, or to report a gas leak, please call 1-800-ALLIANT (800-255-4268). For more safety information, visit alliantenergy.com/safety.
